CBRNE | Detection

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 24, 2018 -- Pasternack, a leading provider of RF, microwave and millimeter wave products, has unveiled a new line of compact waveguide Gunn diode oscillators that are tunable and generate signal levels that exhibit low phase noise at popular K and Ka band frequencies. Typical applications include transmit and receive oscillators for radio communications, local oscillator source that can be multiplied for higher mm-wave frequency test and measurement, military and commercial radar sources, police radar, Doppler sensors and security screening.

Pasternack's new Gunn diode oscillators incorporate high performance devices and machined aluminum cavities. Due to the extremely high external Q and temperature compensation mechanism, these oscillators exhibit excellent frequency and power stability, lower phase noise and higher anti-load pulling characteristics. There are two models in this series, the PEWGN1001 model is a K-Band waveguide Gunn oscillator module that generates a center frequency of 24.125 GHz with a tuning range of +/- 1.0 GHz. The PEWGN1000 model generates a Ka band center frequency of 35 GHz with a tuning range of +/- 3.0 GHz. Both models incorporate self-locking tuning screws.

Performance specifications include phase noise as low as -98 dBc/Hz typical at 100 KHz offset and frequency stability as low as -0.2 MHz/°C maximum. The output power of these oscillators is +10 dBm min with power stability of -0.03 dB/°C maximum. Bias supply is +5 to +5.5 Vdc at 200 to 250 mA typical with an operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. The rugged and compact package designs support output frequency ports with fully integrated Mil-grade waveguide flanges of WR-42 UG-595/U for K band and WR-28 UG-599/U for Ka band.

"Our new series of K and Ka band Gunn diode oscillators offer popular center point frequencies of 24.125 and 35 GHz that are tunable. Designers will find these devices extremely useful for sensitive communication, radar and test and measurement applications. Pasternack offers both models available in stock with detailed datasheets and ready for immediate shipment," said Tim Galla, Product Manager.

Pasternack's new Gunn diode oscillators are in stock and ready for immediate shipment with no minimum order quantity. For detailed information on these products, please visit https://www.pasternack.com/pages/rf-microwave-and-millimeter-wave-products/waveguide-gunn-diode-oscillators.html.For inquiries, Pasternack can be contacted at +1-949-261-1920.

About Pasternack:A leader in RF products since 1972, Pasternack is an ISO 9001:2008 certified manufacturer and supplier offering the industry's largest selection of active and passive RF, microwave and millimeter wave products available for same-day shipping. Pasternack is an Infinite Electronics company.

Block MEMS, LLC (Block) has been awarded Phase II of the Intelligence Advanced Research Programs Activity (IARPA) Program for the standoff detection of explosives and toxic chemical threats. Block was chosen for Phase II in a competitive down-selection process.Under Phase I, Block successfully demonstrated the ability to detect trace quantities of explosives and other threats on multiple surfaces at 1 and 5 meter standoff distances in a few seconds.A critical achievement under Phase I has been the development of a benchtop system based on quantum cascade lasers and an innovative chemical detection algorithm. The algorithm combines powerful data processing techniques, simulations of light/material interactions, and modeling of anticipated detected signatures in order to eliminate the effect of clutter, reduce false alarm rates, and improve limits of detection.The IARPA program is called "Standoff Illuminator for Measuring Absorbance and Reflectance Infrared Light Signatures" (SILMARILS). The contract value of the program is now at $10.7 Million. The program is managed by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.Dr. Anish Goyal, Block's VP of Technology and Principal Investigator of the SILMARILS Program at Block, commented, "I am very pleased to receive the second Phase of the SILMARILS Program. The achievements of the previous Phase have taken a significant step towards the ultimate goal of the SILMARILS Program to be able to detect explosives and other chemicals at standoff distances of 30 and 50 meters. The ability to not only detect Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs), but Explosives and Pharmaceutical Based Agents (such as Fentanyl) as well at these standoff distances is addressing a strong need within the Intelligence Community, the Defense Department and the Department of Homeland Security."Dr. Petros Kotidis, Block's CEO added, "We are honored to receive this award and I am very proud of the accomplishment of the Block team under the SILMARILS Program. The technology being developed under this program has far reaching applications within the Security Markets, as it will eventually enable the highly sought-after capability of Standoff Detection of trace chemical threats. Ranging from protection of soft targets against explosive terrorist attacks and faster check-in lines at transportation terminals and airports, to detection of Chemical Warfare Agents (CAWs) and better surveying of contaminated ground and surfaces, the SILMARILS capability will revolutionize the field of chemical security."

Block MEMS, LLC (Block) has been selected to participate in an $8,276,161,000 contract for Joint Enterprise Research, Development, Acquisition, Production and Procurement (JE-RDAP) program to support research and development of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosives defense systems, capabilities, equipment, supplies and material. The JE-RDAP is an enterprise-wide omnibus Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicle awarded by the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical and Biological Defense (JPEO-CBD) and will be used to execute activities related to their mission to protect the nation against Weapons of Mass Destruction.

Block's products are based on the use of Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy for detection of Chemical Threats and fit well within the scope of the JE-RDAP. They include: (a) PORTHOS™, a long (5 km), standoff detection, passive FTIR system, (b) LaserWarn™, a Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs) based chemical detection system for large, critical infrastructure monitoring, (c) LaserSense™, a QCL-based, point sensor that can detect gaseous/vapor threats and, (d) LaserTune™, a QCL-based Mid-Infrared Source for development of new chemical detection technologies.

Dr. Petros Kotidis, Block's CEO, commented, "Block is very pleased to receive the JE-RDAP Award and be selected as one of the providers of Chemical Detection Solutions. We feel that this award is a recognition of the significant value offered by our products, which are deployed to protect our warfighters, assist our intelligence community and save the lives of our fellow citizens. Block has been supporting the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community and Department of Homeland Security for decades and we are committed to continue serving our customers in the future under the JE-RDAP Program."

Dr. Dan Cavicchio, Block's Executive Chairman and Co-Owner, added. "Weapons of Mass Destruction are proliferating and the threats are becoming more and more complex every day, as put forth in the President's recent National Security Strategy. Block has significant technical capabilities and decades long experience with sophisticated instruments for protection against such threats. We are honored to be awarded the JE-RDAP and we look forward to working with the JPEO-CBD."

About Block MEMS LLC:

Block MEMS, LLC is an engineering, development and production company focusing on the R&D and manufacturing of high performance Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs) and FTIR spectrometers. Block MEMS has been awarded numerous government contracts over the past decade for the application of its technologies toward the detection of explosives, buried IEDs, chemical warfare agents, toxic industrial materials and chemical clouds. Both standoff and sampling systems have been developed and delivered to the government for additional testing and evaluation. For example, Block's PORTHOS™ is a man-portable, passive FTIR spectrometer system that remotely detects chemical threats as far as three miles away and protects against chemical warfare agents and weapons of mass destruction. LaserWarn™ is a QCL-based system that is used to protect critical facilities against chemical attacks by establishing a "chemical trip-wire" using eye-safe laser beams.

According to the market research report on "Airborne Surveillance Market by Type (LiDAR, Radar, Imaging System), Product Type (Manned, Unmanned), Application (Military, Defense & Security, Commercial (Surveying & Mapping, Inspection, & Monitoring)), and Geography - Global Forecast to 2023", published by MarketsandMarkets™, the market is expected to be worth USD 4.42 Billion in 2017 and is expected to reach USD 5.81 Billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period. The availability of drones at lower cost and improved laws have been a major driving force for airborne surveillance applications. The growing demand for UAVs in commercial applications, rapid technological advancements, and the adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) in various applications of drones are some of the major driving factors for the airborne surveillance market.

"LiDAR is expected to grow at the highest CAGR in the airborne surveillance market during the forecast period"

Major driving factors include the growing use of LiDAR systems in various applications such as surveying, mapping, and engineering, wide area mapping, urban planning, corridor mapping, bathymetric surveys, agriculture and forestry, inspection and monitoring of infrastructure including pipelines, utilities, telecom towers, roads, bridges, and others. Also, LiDAR is used for exploration and production activities in oil & gas and mining industries. Technological advancements in LiDAR have broaden the scope of LiDAR in various applications. LiDAR data can be collected quickly with high accuracy, compared to other surveying methods.

"Commercial application is expected to grow at the highest CAGR in the airborne surveillance market during the forecast period"

Commercial applications such as surveying and mapping; agriculture; and inspection and monitoring of assets, such as oil & gas pipelines, telecom towers, bridges, rail lines, and others, are expected to create opportunities for the airborne surveillance market. The relaxation in laws for the use of drones in various applications has led to a wide adoption of drones in various commercial applications. Also, various factors such as financing, funding, and lower cost of drones have propelled the airborne surveillance market.

"Airborne surveillance market in North America is expected to hold the highest share during the forecast period"

North America is expected to hold the largest share of the airborne surveillance market during the forecast period. North America was the leading region for the airborne surveillance market in 2016. The US, among other regions in North America, has a huge defense budget as compared to countries in Europe or APAC, thus leading to increasing demand for airborne surveillance systems in North America. The US is expected to be a major contributor to the airborne surveillance market in North America.

The market is dominated by manufacturers such as Boeing (US), Lockheed Martin (US), and Raytheon (US). The presence of major players in the US is expected to drive the airborne surveillance market. Also, the relaxation in regulations related to drones and UAVs help drive the airborne surveillance market in North America. For instance, FAA took some major steps regarding the use of commercial drones in 2016, and the trend is likely to continue in 2017. The introduction of new rules and regulations eased the regulatory burden pertaining to the use of commercial drones in 2016.

MarketsandMarkets™ provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies' revenues. Currently servicing 5000 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets™ for their painpoints around revenues decisions.

Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets™ are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model - GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets™ now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets™ is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.

MarketsandMarkets's flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "RT" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets.

DUBLIN, -- The "Global Biodefense Market 2017-2021" report has been added to Research and Markets' offering.

The global biodefense market to grow at a CAGR of 5.41% during the period 2017-2021.

Global Biodefense market 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.

The latest trend gaining momentum in the market is Government initiatives. Biological agents are easy to obtain as these are naturally present in the environment. The possibility of developing novel weapons through the use of these agents is alarming. Laboratories, across the world, are working on the development of advanced detection systems to identify areas and populations at risk of bioterrorism, provide early warning, and facilitate prompt treatment. Forensic technologies in many countries such as the US are working on identifying biological agents, their environmental origins, and their initial sources. Efforts include sanitization technologies to reinstate facilities without causing any additional concerns.

According to the report, one of the major drivers for this market is Growing threat of bioterrorism. Bioterrorism is defined as a form of terrorism that involves the intentional release or distribution of harmful biological agents for mass destruction of life. These biological agents can be viruses, fungi, protozoa, or bacteria. They are ubiquitous in the natural environment, where they are found in soil, water, plants, and animals. However, they can be genetically modified in laboratories to enhance their lethal properties. Bioterrorism agents being relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain when compared with weapons and chemical agents, can be used for mass destruction. Further, since they can be easily disseminated, their use as bioterrorism agents is unconstrained. They adversely affect human health, ranging from mild allergic reactions to serious medical conditions that can be life-threatening.

Further, the report states that one of the major factors hindering the growth of this market is Lack of information about bioengineered organisms attack. Genetically altered organisms are widely used in the scientific study and have facilitated the development of new medical therapies, preventive strategies, and diagnostic tools. However, such organisms can be maliciously used such as their use in bioterrorism. Intentional or accidental transmission to humans can lead to adverse health effects. However, the unique microbial properties of genetically engineered organisms and the clinical symptoms shown by persons infected with them may obstruct the normal diagnostic, and clinical assessments or preventive approaches as the genetically modified strains are never field-tested. Hence, the actual virulence potential of these microbes remains unknown. Concerns about biotechnology being used to develop new pathogens with exclusive properties or to create completely new classes of biological threat agents is a huge challenge for the global biodefense market in the current scenario.

CHELMSFORD, Mass., Dec. 14, 2017-- Endeavor Robotics, the U.S.-based global leader in tactical ground robotics is proud to welcome two former senior government officials, Eric Rosenbach and Katrina McFarland to its advisory board. The primary role of the board will be to offer critical and strategic guidance on issues related to national security threats, advancements in unmanned ground robotics and future technology needs of first responders and military personnel.

Eric Rosenbach is a former Pentagon Chief of Staff and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Global Security and Homeland Defense. As Chief of Staff, he managed the Department's most sensitive decisions and ensured implementation of transformative changes in the Department's technology, budget and talent management. As Assistant Secretary, Rosenbach was responsible for leading all aspects of the Department's cyber strategy, policy, and operations. Prior to his public service, Rosenbach was Principal for a global management consulting firm where he advised executives on risk mitigation strategies. He currently serves as Co-Director of the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at the Harvard Kennedy School.

Katrina McFarland comes to Endeavor's advisory board having recently retired from the Department of Defense. McFarland served as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, where she was the principal advisor to both the Secretary and Under Secretary of Defense on all matters pertaining to acquisition. McFarland's honorable career also included serving as the Assistant Secretary to the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology.

"Eric and Katrina's unparalleled experience will provide invaluable insight into the Department of Defense's long-term vision for robotics. We are deeply honored that they have chosen to join Endeavor's Advisory Board," said Endeavor Robotics CEO, Sean Bielat. "Their support will be an important part of our continued leadership in the ground robotics industry."

About Endeavor Robotics:Endeavor Robotics is the world's largest supplier of unmanned ground vehicles and has delivered over 6,500 units to 40+ countries, totaling 3 million hours of robot operation. Every day Endeavor products operate in areas of conflict, assist law enforcement agencies and respond to natural disasters to protect human lives. Endeavor Robotics is 100% based in the United States – including R&D, manufacturing, staffing and ownership. Endeavor employs over 100 people and draws on 28 years of experience.

Endeavor Robotics is expanding. To see a list of available opportunities visit: www.endeavorrobotics.hirecentric.com/jobsearch/

PITTSBURGH, Dec. 14, 2017 -- Global safety equipment manufacturer MSA Safety (NYSE: MSA) today announced the deployment of 1,100 state-of-the-art G1 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) to the Chicago Fire Department (CFD). The contract was formally awarded in late 2016 and today's deployment represents the completion of a one-year, multi-phase delivery and training process. The last time Chicago deployed new SCBA technology was on September 11, 2001.

"This latest rollout of new SCBA gear for our fire personnel features the latest technology that will help improve firefighter safety and performance and will in turn increase the safety of our citizens," said Jose Santiago, Fire Commissioner of the Chicago Fire Department.

"When we were designing and building our G1 SCBA – MSA's most technologically advanced, balanced and customizable breathing apparatus ever – our engineers relied heavily on voice-of-customer feedback from thousands of firefighters in the field," said Nish Vartanian, President and Chief Operating Officer. "We are incredibly honored that fire departments like the Chicago Fire Department, the nation's third-largest department and one of the world's oldest and most well-respected, have taken note and entrusted MSA to protect the men and women that keep Chicagoans safe each and every day," he continued.

The G1 SCBA platform, the single largest new product development effort in MSA's 103-year history, was introduced in 2014 and features several breakthrough features designed to improve firefighter safety and effectiveness. For instance, unlike conventional designs, the G1 SCBA has no electronics on its facepiece, making it easier for firefighters to use their full field of view. The SCBA design includes darkness- and smoke-piercing "buddy lights," which provide visible indicators of fellow firefighters and accompanying critical air supply data from any angle, and features improved voice amplification communications.

The unit's unique ergonomic design, combined with an adjustable waist belt and wide shoulder straps, allows more SCBA weight to be carried on a firefighter's hips. Collectively, these features make the SCBA more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time. Additionally, the G1 SCBA includes a "Central Power" feature that powers the entire unit from a single, rechargeable battery compartment, eliminating the need for additional batteries. Also available is an optional integrated thermal imaging camera (iTIC) that's built right into the G1 SCBA's control module.

"MSA's commitment to the fire service, and the firefighters that make our cities safe, is more than just words. In truth, it's what drives our associates and fuels our passion to continually raise the bar to protect firefighters with the best and most advanced technology available today, like the G1 SCBA," Mr. Vartanian continued. "We're happy that the Chicago Fire Department continues to put their trust in the MSA brand, and we're excited to further strengthen our relationship with one of the most well-respected fire departments in the world."

About MSA

Established in 1914, MSA Safety Incorporated is the global leader in the development, manufacture and supply of safety products that protect people and facility infrastructures. Many MSA products integrate a combination of electronics, mechanical systems and advanced materials to protect users against hazardous or life-threatening situations. The company's comprehensive product line is used by workers around the world in a broad range of markets, including the oil, gas and petrochemical industry, the fire service, the construction industry, mining and the military. MSA's core products include self-contained breathing apparatus, fixed gas and flame detection systems, portable gas detection instruments, industrial head protection products, firefighter helmets and protective apparel, and fall protection devices. With 2016 revenues of $1.15 billion, MSA employs approximately 4,600 people worldwide. The company is headquartered north of Pittsburgh in Cranberry Township, Pa., and has manufacturing operations in the United States, Europe, Asia and Latin America. With more than 40 international locations, MSA realizes approximately half of its revenue from outside North America. For more information visit MSA's web site at www.MSAsafety.com.

COLUMBUS, Ohio —Battelle will continue its work to help the nation keep counterfeit and untrustworthy integrated circuits and embedded systems out of the military supply chain.

Under the Microelectronics and Embedded Systems Assurance (MESA) contract vehicle, two awards worth $23 million were recently announced for research that will be conducted at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio.

The contracts build on Battelle’s experience in conducting basic and applied research on technologies designed to address the increasing threat and proliferation of counterfeit microelectronics and integrated circuits.

All modern defense weapon systems are inherently reliant on microelectronic devices and embedded systems for their operation. Any threat to the integrity of these components can result in significant harm to operations, people and systems.

“We’re excited to leverage our innovative cyber trust and assurance research and solutions in continued support of the Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL) Sensors Directorate,” said Tom Bergman, cyber program manager at Battelle. “Ensuring the security and reliability of military microelectronics and embedded systems against the growing threat is an imperative.”

The work, which will occur over the next four and a half years, will be performed with teammates from MacAulay-Brown, Inc. and the BerrieHill Research Division of Applied Research Associates.

“Hardware device security is a strategic focus of the Cyber Innovations business unit, and these contract wins continue to build on our expertise in the research and development of technologies for hardware trust and assurance,” said Lisa McCauley, general manager of the unit. “Battelle is dedicated to supporting our customers’ national security mission, and we are pleased that AFRL recognizes the strength and innovation of our team with these awards.”

For more than a decade, Battelle has been trusted by government clients to solve some of their most perplexing cyber challenges and manage the ever-changing cyber landscape through custom solutions, discipline-diverse talent, and unique tools, technology and expertise.

About Battelle Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit www.battelle.org.

Ouster, a San Francisco-based developer of high performance LIDAR technology emerged from stealth today, announcing the launch of the company's new OS1 model LIDAR, and $27 million in Series A funding, led by Cox Enterprises. The OS1 represents a step-change in LIDAR sensing technology that is available on the market today, with marked improvements in mass, form factor, and power requirements. The 64-channel LIDAR sensor, which also matches the resolution of the highest performing automotive LIDAR technology on the market today, has begun shipping to customers, and is rapidly ramping up commercial-scale production at a price point approximately 85% below that of its competition.

"Ouster's OS1 LIDAR is a truly compelling piece of technology that we believe is going to accelerate the autonomous driving development curve," said David Blau, VP of Corporate Strategy and Investments at Cox Enterprises, who will join the Ouster Board. "We are excited to back Angus, Mark, and the entire Ouster team as they are now positioned to be the first true competitor in what's largely been a one-player market to date."The company was founded by CEO Angus Pacala, co-founder and former head of engineering of Quanergy Systems, and CTO Mark Frichtl, a prior Quanergy Systems engineer who also spent time at Palantir Technologies, First Solar, and the Apple Special Projects Group. Pacala and Frichtl formed Ouster with the vision to create a high-performance, reliable, and small form factor LIDAR sensor that could be manufactured at a scale and price that would allow autonomous technology to continue its rapid expansion without the cost and manufacturing constraints currently present in the market."The company has maintained a low-profile for over two years – staying heads-down and focusing on getting the OS1 ready to ship," noted CEO and co-founder Angus Pacala. "I'm incredibly proud of our team for their hard work to produce the most advanced, practical, and scalable LIDAR sensor on the market, and we're very excited about the impact our product will have in autonomous vehicles and other applications in robotics," Pacala added.Ouster's Series A funding will primarily be used for the manufacturing and the continued development of its next sensor designs. The company anticipates manufacturing capacity in the tens of thousands of sensors in 2018 based on its current product design, and Ouster's product roadmap supports continually improving resolution, range, and alternative form factors. Additionally, the new capital will support the company's expansion from approximately 40 employees today to 100 employees by summer 2018."Ouster is poised to be a key enabler of the future of mobility," said Chris Thomas, a founder and partner of Fontinalis Partners. "We spent the past 12 months researching the broader perception space, with a specific focus on LIDAR, and feel strongly that Ouster's team, technical approach, and focus on manufacturing at volume positions them to capture a market leadership position today and power the autonomous systems of the future." About OusterOuster is a leading developer of LIDAR and perception technology for the autonomous vehicle and robotics sectors. The company's flagship product, the OS1, provides industry leading performance, scalability, reliability, and form factor. Ouster's corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility are located in the Mission District of San Francisco. For more information, visit www.ouster.io.About Cox EnterprisesCox Enterprises is a leading communications, media and automotive services company. With revenues exceeding $20 billion and approximately 60,000 employees, the company's major operating subsidiaries include Cox Communications (cable television distribution, high-speed Internet access, telephone, home security and automation, commercial telecommunications and advertising solutions); Cox Automotive (automotive-related auctions, financial services, media and software solutions); and Cox Media Group (television and radio stations, digital media, newspapers and advertising sales rep firms).About Fontinalis PartnersFontinalis Partners, with offices in Detroit and Boston, is a venture capital firm strategically focused on next-generation mobility solutions. The firm was founded in 2009 by Bill Ford, Ralph Booth, Chris Cheever, Chris Thomas and Mark Schulz. Fontinalis invests across all facets of the world's mobility systems on a stage- and size-agnostic basis. Fontinalis is not affiliated with Ford Motor Company. More information is available at www.fontinalis.com.About ConstellationConstellation is a leading competitive retail supplier of power, natural gas and energy products and services for homes and businesses across the continental United States. Constellation's family of retail businesses serves approximately 2.2 million residential, public sector and business customers, including more than two-thirds of the Fortune 100. Baltimore-based Constellation is a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation, the nation's leading competitive energy provider, with 2016 revenues of approximately $31.4 billion, and more than 35,500 megawatts of owned capacity comprising one of the nation's cleanest and lowest-cost power generation fleets. Learn more at www.constellation.com or on Twitter at @ConstellationEG.

Ouster, a San Francisco-based developer of high performance LIDAR technology emerged from stealth today, announcing the launch of the company's new OS1 model LIDAR, and $27 million in Series A funding, led by Cox Enterprises. The OS1 represents a step-change in LIDAR sensing technology that is available on the market today, with marked improvements in mass, form factor, and power requirements. The 64-channel LIDAR sensor, which also matches the resolution of the highest performing automotive LIDAR technology on the market today, has begun shipping to customers, and is rapidly ramping up commercial-scale production at a price point approximately 85% below that of its competition.

"Ouster's OS1 LIDAR is a truly compelling piece of technology that we believe is going to accelerate the autonomous driving development curve," said David Blau, VP of Corporate Strategy and Investments at Cox Enterprises, who will join the Ouster Board. "We are excited to back Angus, Mark, and the entire Ouster team as they are now positioned to be the first true competitor in what's largely been a one-player market to date."The company was founded by CEO Angus Pacala, co-founder and former head of engineering of Quanergy Systems, and CTO Mark Frichtl, a prior Quanergy Systems engineer who also spent time at Palantir Technologies, First Solar, and the Apple Special Projects Group. Pacala and Frichtl formed Ouster with the vision to create a high-performance, reliable, and small form factor LIDAR sensor that could be manufactured at a scale and price that would allow autonomous technology to continue its rapid expansion without the cost and manufacturing constraints currently present in the market."The company has maintained a low-profile for over two years – staying heads-down and focusing on getting the OS1 ready to ship," noted CEO and co-founder Angus Pacala. "I'm incredibly proud of our team for their hard work to produce the most advanced, practical, and scalable LIDAR sensor on the market, and we're very excited about the impact our product will have in autonomous vehicles and other applications in robotics," Pacala added.Ouster's Series A funding will primarily be used for the manufacturing and the continued development of its next sensor designs. The company anticipates manufacturing capacity in the tens of thousands of sensors in 2018 based on its current product design, and Ouster's product roadmap supports continually improving resolution, range, and alternative form factors. Additionally, the new capital will support the company's expansion from approximately 40 employees today to 100 employees by summer 2018."Ouster is poised to be a key enabler of the future of mobility," said Chris Thomas, a founder and partner of Fontinalis Partners. "We spent the past 12 months researching the broader perception space, with a specific focus on LIDAR, and feel strongly that Ouster's team, technical approach, and focus on manufacturing at volume positions them to capture a market leadership position today and power the autonomous systems of the future." About Ouster Ouster is a leading developer of LIDAR and perception technology for the autonomous vehicle and robotics sectors. The company's flagship product, the OS1, provides industry leading performance, scalability, reliability, and form factor. Ouster's corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility are located in the Mission District of San Francisco. For more information, visit www.ouster.io.About Cox Enterprises Cox Enterprises is a leading communications, media and automotive services company. With revenues exceeding $20 billion and approximately 60,000 employees, the company's major operating subsidiaries include Cox Communications (cable television distribution, high-speed Internet access, telephone, home security and automation, commercial telecommunications and advertising solutions); Cox Automotive (automotive-related auctions, financial services, media and software solutions); and Cox Media Group (television and radio stations, digital media, newspapers and advertising sales rep firms).About Fontinalis Partners Fontinalis Partners, with offices in Detroit and Boston, is a venture capital firm strategically focused on next-generation mobility solutions. The firm was founded in 2009 by Bill Ford, Ralph Booth, Chris Cheever, Chris Thomas and Mark Schulz. Fontinalis invests across all facets of the world's mobility systems on a stage- and size-agnostic basis. Fontinalis is not affiliated with Ford Motor Company. More information is available at www.fontinalis.com.About Constellation Constellation is a leading competitive retail supplier of power, natural gas and energy products and services for homes and businesses across the continental United States. Constellation's family of retail businesses serves approximately 2.2 million residential, public sector and business customers, including more than two-thirds of the Fortune 100. Baltimore-based Constellation is a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation, the nation's leading competitive energy provider, with 2016 revenues of approximately $31.4 billion, and more than 35,500 megawatts of owned capacity comprising one of the nation's cleanest and lowest-cost power generation fleets. Learn more at www.constellation.com or on Twitter at @ConstellationEG.Contact Ouster

HID Global is opening the door to a new era of security and convenience. Powered by Seos technology, the HID Mobile Access solution delivers a more secure and convenient way to open doors and gates, access networks and services, and make cashless payments using phones and other mobile devices. ...

Mobile device forensics can make a difference in many investigations, but you need training that teaches you how to get the most out of your mobile forensics hardware and software, and certifies you to testify in court. Read this white paper to learn how to evaluate mobile forensics training...

PureTech Systems is a software company that develops and markets PureActiv, its geospatial analytics solution designed to protect critical perimeters and infrastructure. Its patented video analytics leverage thermal cameras, radars and other perimeter sensors to detect, geo-locate, classify, and...